Designed to support optimal plant growth in hot climate zones, films produced with IR8783PE block a significant amount of the near infrared radiation (NIR), which would otherwise strongly heat up the greenhouse interior. Most of the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), which is required for a healthy plant growth, can pass through the films unhindered. Field trials in South Israel reportedly revealed a 4 to 5°C lower peak temperature in comparison with conventional light diffusing film with no undesired overnight temperature drop. With a recommended rate of addition of about 5% for a 200 micron film, the new masterbatch is suitable for single, three and five layer films.
Cultivating crops in very hot regions, such as the subtropics or Southern Europe, is made difficult by the plants' ability to produce pollen being reduced at high temperatures. The most common remedy, namely painting the films with whitewash, not only entails additional labor but at the same time cuts out some of the essential PAR, according to Tosaf. Films produced with IR8783PE can not only save this extra labor but also lower the temperature without significant PAR loss.
Tosaf Group, founded in 1985, is a joint-venture between Megides Holding and the Ravago Group. The group operates nine factories in Israel, Turkey, Germany, UK, The Netherlands and the Ukraine, with a total of 800 employees. Tosaf's range of products includes mineral-filled compounds for the white goods industry, automotive and other plastic industries; additives such as UV-/light stabilizers, flame retardants and customized additives for applications including BOPP, agricultural, packaging and industrial films, polycarbonate sheets, pipes, foams and other products; and color masterbatches for a wide range of applications.
